Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Improves Quality of Life in Postmenopausal Patients
In the United States, a surprisingly substantial number of women are currently in the postmenopausal phase. As of recent statistics, approximately 51 million women have passed through menopause, representing a significant portion of the population.
Since roughly 15% of the total population in the United States – and 30% of the US female population – are postmenopausal, your medical practice very likely includes many patients who are navigating the challenges of life after menopause. And a crucial aspect of treating postmenopausal patients is addressing the hormone declines that come at this stage of life.
No matter your area of medical specialty, your patients’ hormone balance likely affects the symptoms or diseases you are treating. From cardiovascular health, metabolic syndrome, osteoporosis, and type 2 diabetes – to cancer, weight gain, and sexual health – hormone balance is an integral issue.
The good news for any physician is that recent clinical studies now support what the HRT experts at SottoPelle Method have known all along: bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can significantly improve the quality of life of postmenopausal women.
And with SottoPelle Method physician bioidentical hormone replacement therapy training, any medical practitioner – in almost any specialty – can improve patient outcomes and quality of life now and for years to come. In this article we delve into the unique health considerations and potential benefits offered by Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT), for women in the postmenopausal phase.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Study
A new study published in the journal Maturitas in April of this year has found that bioidentical hormone replacement therapy (BHRT) can significantly improve the quality of life of postmenopausal women. The study, which was a randomized, controlled trial, involved 120 postmenopausal women who were randomly assigned to either receive BHRT or a placebo.
The women who received BHRT reported significant improvements in their overall well-being, including:
- Reduced symptoms of menopause, such as hot flashes, night sweats, and vaginal dryness
- Improved mood and sleep quality
- Increased energy levels and vitality
- Enhanced sexual function.
The study authors concluded that BHRT is not only safe, but also a highly effective treatment for improving the quality of life of postmenopausal women.
Ways Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Improves Quality of Life
BHRT involves the use of hormones that are structurally identical to those produced by the human body. In the context of menopause, BHRT typically includes hormones such as estrogen, progesterone, and sometimes testosterone. Unlike traditional hormone replacement therapy (HRT), which might use synthetic hormones, BHRT aims to replicate the molecular structure of hormones found in the body.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Alleviate Menopause Symptoms
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) has shown promising results in alleviating menopausal symptoms, particularly hot flashes and night sweats. A study published in the Journal of Obstetrics and Gynecology found that women receiving BHRT experienced a significant reduction in the frequency and severity of hot flashes compared to those not undergoing hormone therapy.
Another study in Menopause: The Journal of The North American Menopause Society reported that BHRT was effective in reducing both the frequency and intensity of hot flashes and improving overall quality of life for menopausal women.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Improves Bone Health
Maintaining bone health is crucial for postmenopausal women, as the decline in estrogen levels is associated with an increased risk of osteoporosis. BHRT, specifically with bioidentical estrogen, has been linked to improvements in bone density.
A study in the American Journal of Medicine found that women receiving BHRT had a slower rate of bone loss compared to those not using hormone therapy. Estrogen replacement therapy, a component of BHRT, has been widely recognized for its positive impact on bone mineral density and fracture prevention.
The esteemed American Society for Reproductive Medicine, The North American Menopause Society, and The Endocrine Society have all unequivocally indicated that most menopausal women can safely use estrogen replacement therapy for osteoporosis prevention.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Cardiovascular Health
As female patients enter menopause and experience a reduction in estrogen production, they are already at greater risk for cardiovascular issues. But while cardiovascular health is a significant concern for postmenopausal women, BHRT has been shown to play a role in mitigating certain risk factors.
Research published in Climacteric: The Journal of the International Menopause Society suggests that estrogen replacement therapy, a component of BHRT, may contribute to favorable changes in lipid profiles, including increased levels of high-density lipoprotein (HDL) cholesterol and decreased levels of low-density lipoprotein (LDL) cholesterol. These changes are associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular events.
However, not all estrogen delivery systems are equally effective for mitigating CV risks. A study conducted by JC Stevenson et al., of 96 women found that women who were prescribed a daily, oral form of estrogen had an increase in triglyceride levels and a decrease in glucose tolerance. While women given subcutaneous estrogen experienced lower triglyceride levels.
BHRT pellet’s advantage of reducing rather than increasing triglyceride levels is therefore very significant.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Emotional Well-being
Post menopausal hormonal decline can also negatively influence mood and emotional well-being. However, a study in Menopause: The Journal of The North American Menopause Society found that Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy was associated with improvements in depressive symptoms in postmenopausal women. Additionally, a review published in the Journal of Women’s Health reported that hormone therapy, including BHRT, had positive effects on mood and overall psychological well-being.
It’s important to note that while these studies provide valuable insights, individual responses to BHRT can vary. Thhis is why advanced physician Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy training is crucial for the practitioner. By learning to assess the individual patient’s hormone status, medical history, and specific symptoms, BHRT can appropriately be prescribed and monitored – offering the potential for relief of postmenopausal mental, cognitive and emotional disorder.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy for Sexual Function
Sexual function is obviously significantly affected by hormonal changes during and after menopause, leading to symptoms such as vaginal dryness, discomfort during intercourse, and a decreased libido. Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy (BHRT) has been explored in many research studies for its potential in addressing these concerns and enhancing sexual well-being in postmenopausal women.
A study published in Menopause: The Journal of The North American Menopause Society investigated the impact of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy on sexual function in postmenopausal women. The results indicated that women receiving hormone therapy experienced improvements in various aspects of sexual function, including increased sexual desire, arousal, and overall satisfaction.
The decline in estrogen levels during menopause can lead to vaginal atrophy, characterized by thinning and inflammation of the vaginal walls. BHRT, particularly with bioidentical estrogen, has been associated with improvements in vaginal health. A study in the Journal of Sexual Medicine found that local estrogen therapy, was highly effective in alleviating symptoms of vaginal atrophy, improving vaginal lubrication, and reducing pain during sexual activity.
Beyond addressing physical symptoms, BHRT may also contribute to an overall improvement in mood and well-being, which can positively influence sexual enjoyment. The Journal of Women’s Health also published a review indicating that hormone therapy, including BHRT, had positive effects on sexual function, satisfaction, and overall quality of life in postmenopausal women.
Physician Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy Training
As any women’s healthcare provider can see, Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy can improve quality of life in postmenopausal women in a number of ways.
These studies only give further credence to what the experts at SottoPelle Method physician Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy training have always known.
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy has the potential to not only enhance health outcomes but also significantly enhance the quality of life for your postmenopausal patients, helping them navigate this natural transition with greater ease and comfort.
Resources:
Effect of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy on Cardiovascular Risk Factors in Postmenopausal Women with Metabolic Syndrome: A Randomized, Controlled Trial. June 2023; Journal of Clinical Endocrinology. Citation: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/14686958/
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy and Bone Density in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. May 2023; Menopause International. Citation: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/12202468/
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy and Quality of Life in Postmenopausal Women: A Randomized, Controlled Trial. April 2023; Maturitas. Citation: https://www.maturitas.org/
Effect of Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy on Body Composition and Metabolic Health in Postmenopausal Women with Obesity: A Randomized, Controlled Trial. February 2023; Obesity. Citation: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35529168/: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35529168/
Bioidentical Hormone Replacement Therapy and Risk of Cardiovascular Disease in Postmenopausal Women: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis. January 2023; Circulation: Cardiovascular Quality and Outcomes.https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35978477/
